Tips For an Energy Efficient Refrigerator
An energy efficient refrigerator can save energy and shave money off of your utility bill.
Here's how to make your refrigerator more energy efficient:
Check the Temperature
Many refrigerator thermostats are set colder than necessary. To check yours, place a thermometer in a jar of water overnight. Try not to open the refrigerator. In the morning, the temperature should read between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the thermostat if necessary and recheck the next night.
Cash for Appliances
If you are thinking about buying new, consider an Energy Star refrigerator.
Rebates are available for approved energy efficient appliances.
To find out about programs in your state, see Energy Star.
Combine
If you have two refrigerators, there's a good chance one of them is rarely used. If so, consider combining them. One larger refrigerator is more efficient than two smaller versions.
Cool Down
Adding warm food to the refrigerator forces it to work harder to keep things cool. Let food reach room temperature before adding to the fridge.
Dust
A few times a year, pull the refrigerator out from the wall. Make sure nothing has fallen behind it to block the air flow. Dust off the coils on the back of the fridge.
Flip the Switch
If you refrigerator has an energy saver switch, turn it off in the winter.
Kick the Habit
We've all been there; staring down the refrigerator shelves, hoping the delicious delicacy we are dreaming of will suddenly appear. Okay, maybe that's just me. Try to think about what you need before opening the fridge door. Trust me, that scrumptious treat rarely appears.
Let it Breathe
Leave some room between the refrigerator and the wall for maximum efficiency. If possible, leave some room between the cabinets and countertops too.
Move It
For the most energy efficient refrigerator, it may need to relocate. Refrigerators shouldn't be next to heat producing appliances, which is practically every other gadget in the modern kitchen. Unfortunately, ours is next to the dishwasher and has no other place to go.
One Stop Shopping
After a trip to the grocery, gather all of the items to be refrigerated on the counter. Open the fridge just once to put things away. Use this method when preparing meals and snacks. It takes a little time to get used to it, but quickly becomes second nature.
Organize
Have a designated space for items in the refrigerator. Easy to find items means less time searching for things while the door open. Keep regularly used products within close reach. Those that are used less often can be tucked in the back.
Stock Up
A well stocked refrigerator runs more efficiently than an empty one. But, be sure not to over-stock. An overcrowded fridge has to work overtime to keep the excess food cool.
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